Commission a Custom Portrait in Toronto
Bring a memory to life with an original oil or acrylic painting.
Pricing
Portraits range $5–$10 per sq. in.
Process
Start with a favourite photo, a photoshoot, or in some cases, a live sitting.
Timing
Allow 2–3 months for completion.
The Portrait Commission Process
01
Consultation
Who are we painting?
Let's set intent, vibe, ballpark pricing.
02
Reference
Choose: photo(s), custom photoshoot, or live sitting.
03
Plan & Quote
Let's talk about the composition, dimensions & timeline.
04
Deposit
All set? 50% non-refundable deposit to start.
05
Creation
Follow along with updates, or trust in the work of the artist to be gifted with a surprise!
06
Approval
This process is special - let's make sure you are thrilled with the final work.
In-person is best, but virtual exists.
07
Delivery
Final payment is due upon approval of the artwork.
We facilitate pickup, local delivery, or shipping - quoted separately.
Typical Portrait Sizes & Pricing
11" x 14"
16" x 20"
18" x 24"
$770–$1,540
$1,600–$3,200
$2,160–$4,320
We can also have a high quality custom canvas created. This can be customized to any dimension.
For larger paintings, or very important paintings, this is a very wise option.
*Prices vary with detail and style. Whole-body portraits or detailed backgrounds quoted separately.
Why Commission from Steven Henderson
Steven Henderson is a Toronto-based portrait artist creating heirloom-quality paintings that capture likeness, story, and spirit. His process is clear and collaborative — whether working from photos, a custom photoshoot, or traditional sittings. Clients appreciate both his artistry and his professionalism, from first consultation to final delivery.
The portrait that Steven painted of my mother was done from a photo, but it transcends that medium and brings my mother's spirit right into the room. I commissioned the portrait to give to my father, who was in hospital and alone for many hours every day. It gave him a focus and helped him to feel loved. My father wanted us to share the portrait once he had gone; no one person should keep it, but rather Mum's love should shine on us all. I am so grateful to Steven for transforming my father's last days with his painting. - Marny Gibson
Frequently Asked Questions
-
How much does a portrait cost?
Pricing usually ranges $5–$10 per square inch. A detailed quote is provided after consultation. -
Do I need to sit for the portrait?
Not unless you want to. Most portraits are painted from photos, but a custom photoshoot or traditional sitting can also be arranged. -
How long will it take?
Most commissions require 2–3 months lead time. If you have a deadline, contact Steven early to discuss. -
Can I see progress?
Yes. You may receive photo updates or visit the studio, or you can choose to be surprised with the final reveal.
Start Your Portrait
Tell me about your portrait idea, and I’ll follow up with a custom quote.
What is Involved in Making a Custom Portrait with Steven Henderson?
When you commission a portrait, the most important part is how we capture the likeness and story of the subject. Whether you want a portrait of a family member, inspiring leader, or your grandfather's truck, you get to decide what feels right, and together we’ll choose the approach that best reflects your vision.
1. Work From Your Photos
If you already have a favorite photo (or a few), we can start there. Most commissions are painted from 1–3 client-supplied images. Steven studies them, proposes a composition, and creates a preliminary plan for your approval before painting begins.
2. Create New Reference Photography
If you want more control over lighting, style, or mood, we can create professional photo references tailored to your vision. Steven collaborates with seasoned photographers who bring decades of portrait experience:
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Kumar Images — specializing in portrait and event photography, trusted across Toronto for over 20 years.
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Headshot Toronto — offering contemporary headshot photography that balances professionalism and personality.
Together, these trusted partners ensure you’ll have high-quality images that translate beautifully into a timeless painting.
If you already have a photo that speaks to you, this is the best option.
3. Traditional Live Sittings
Some clients enjoy the experience of sitting for a portrait in person. This can be as simple as one session to capture reference photos, or a series of sittings to develop the painting step by step. Life sittings create a timeless, personal connection to the artwork.
4. Image & Composition Choices
Most portraits focus on head, shoulders, and torso, which keeps the emphasis on the subject.
If you prefer a full-body portrait or a painting with a complex background, that’s absolutely possible — it simply requires more time and will be quoted separately.
5. Bringing Story Into the Painting
The more you share, the more meaningful the portrait becomes. Tell Steven about the person: their character, stories, or qualities that matter most. These details influence theme, color palette, and mood, shaping a portrait that is not only a likeness but also an impression of their life and spirit.
See For Yourself How A Portrait Is Transformed
